Real Dippers: Jane
Who are you and where do you dip?
Jane, Eastbourne, sea swimmer.
Your favourite time of day/season/weather for swimming?
I love the early mornings all year round. Watching the sunrise whilst in the sea is quite special. Mid to high tide is my favourite.
How cold does the water get where you swim and how does it make you feel?
The lowest I’ve felt it is around 6c in Eastbourne. Although we do dip in the Pyrenees rivers when holidaying. Which can be much lower due to the icy water coming off the mountains.
How long have you been wild swimming?
Although we’ve always lived by the sea we only swam in the warmer weather/seasons. This is my 2nd winter.
How did you start, what got you to try it?
After reading articles on the benefits of cold water swimming for both physical and mental health. I started it whilst on holiday in the Pyrenees then continued once back home. Joining a local group.
What were you worried about before you started dipping?
Not much. Having grown up in a seaside town I already had respect for the sea. I choose not to dip alone in the winter months for safety reasons. As the water and air temps can be cold, and the beaches empty. Always safer to have company even if it’s just one other.
Listening to the more experienced group members advice on basic equipment and apps and how to watch and learn from the sea/wave movements.
Early morning dips. Length depends on the season but rarely less than 10 mins at a time. In the warmer weather we can dip several times a day.
In the summer the bare minimum, beach shoes, costume, towel, cold drink and a bag for wet stuff. In the winter, extras……. big bag, safety float, hot drink, hot water bottle, swim hat, 3-5mm gloves, 3-5mm boots, dryrobe coat or cuddlr trousers and jacket for warmth. Woolly hat and gloves.
Not paying attention to the waves on a rougher day and getting bowled over by a wave.
